AP English Literature and Composition
Course Information
AP English Literature and Composition is an introductory college-level literature course focused on close reading, interpretation, and literary analysis.
Subject Area: English
UC A-G Area: B – English
Course Level: Advanced Placement
Open Terms: Summer & Fall
Enrollment Information
Course Start: 9/10/2026
Course End: 4/29/2027
Class Mode: Onsite/Online
Enrollment Period: 5/1/2026-8/30/2026
Related College Majors
This course provides useful preparation for many college pathways centered on analytical reading, writing, communication, and the humanities, including:
English / Literature / Creative Writing / Pre-Law / Education / Journalism / Communications / History / Philosophy / Theater Arts
Prerequisites
Students should:
- Earn an A or B in AP English Language and Composition, or an A or B in Honors English
Students should also be prepared for substantial literary reading, close textual analysis, timed essays, evidence-based interpretation, and advanced academic writing.
Course Units
- Short Fiction I
- Poetry I
- Longer Fiction or Drama I
- Short Fiction II
- Poetry II
- Longer Fiction or Drama II
- Short Fiction III
- Poetry III
- Longer Fiction or Drama III
College Board organizes AP English Literature into these nine commonly taught units, while allowing teachers flexibility in how the course is sequenced.
Comparison Table
2027 AP Exam Information
Exam Date: May 5, 2027 | Exam Duration: 3 Hours
Section I
Multiple Choice
- 55 questions
- 1 Hour
- 45% of Score
The section contains 5 sets of questions, with approximately 8–13 questions per set.
Each set is based on a passage of:
- Prose fiction
- Drama
- Poetry
The multiple-choice section includes at least:
- 2 prose fiction passages
- 2 poetry passages
Students analyze literary elements, interpretation, structure, language, narration, and meaning.
All responses are completed digitally in Bluebook.
Section II
Free Response
- 3 questions
- 2 Hours
- 55% of Score
The section includes:
- Poetry Analysis
- Prose Fiction Analysis
- Literary Argument
Poetry Analysis
Students analyze a provided poem and explain how literary techniques contribute to its meaning.
Prose Fiction Analysis
Students analyze a passage of prose fiction or drama and explain how the author’s choices contribute to the interpretation of the work.
Literary Argument
Students develop an argument in response to a literary concept, issue, or element and support their interpretation using a work of fiction they select.
All three essays are written and submitted digitally in Bluebook.
Related AP Courses
Explore other AP courses that complement this course and can help you build a broader academic pathway based on your interests, strengths, and future college goals.
AP English Language and Composition
Develop rhetorical analysis, nonfiction reading, synthesis, and evidence-based argumentation skills.
AP Seminar
Apply research, source evaluation, argumentation, collaboration, and presentation skills to interdisciplinary academic and real-world topics.
AP European History
Build historical and cultural context that can deepen understanding of literature from different European periods and traditions.
AP World History: Modern
Develop historical reasoning, source analysis, and argumentative writing while studying global developments from 1200 to the present.
Questions About AP English Literature and Composition
Where can I find official AP English Literature resources and exam details?
For the official course framework, exam information, scoring rubrics, and student resources, visit the College Board AP English Literature and Composition page.
Do I need to take AP English Language before AP English Literature?
Not necessarily. Franklin Academy allows students to qualify through either AP English Language and Composition or Honors English, provided they meet the required grade standard.
What is the difference between AP English Literature and AP English Language?
AP English Literature focuses on fiction, poetry, drama, and literary interpretation. AP English Language focuses primarily on nonfiction, rhetoric, evidence, and argument.
Is the 2027 AP English Literature Exam fully digital?
Yes. Both the multiple-choice section and all three free-response essays are completed and submitted in Bluebook.
What kinds of texts will I read?
Students read and analyze poetry, short fiction, longer fiction, and drama from a range of periods, cultures, and literary traditions.
Interested in Enrolling in AP Classes?
Franklin Academy offers a range of AP courses designed to help students strengthen their academic foundation, explore advanced subjects, and prepare for college-level coursework. Complete the form below and let us know which AP courses you’re interested in.